Minnesota MLS - Multiple Listing Service

MN MLS

Minnesota MLS can provide valuable information to those looking to purchase a home. Even before you start a serious home search, going through MLS listings for the state can help you narrow down cities that are affordable for you. If you already have a job lined up in Minnesota, using MLS listings will allow you to narrow down you choices and show you what kind of extras you can afford. If you are selling a house using MLS services will give you a larger range of buyers, making it easier to sell your home. Either way, there are advantages to finding a good MLS service in Minnesota.

For Buyers

Using MLS services can help you greatly in your home search. An MLS service is very specialized, and allows people to narrow results down using very specific criteria. For example, you can do a general search based on price ranges, or you can narrow the searches to only 3 bedroom homes with a pool. This allows you to get exactly what you want. Before you seriously start looking it can also help you get a better idea of what is and isn't realistic. If you are set on certain features you can see what areas have the best home values, allowing you to get the most out of your new home for your money. You can use services online to see MLS listings. However, going through a real estate agent is a better idea. Online services may not give you 100% accurate information, and a lot of information may be left out entirely. An agent will have access to completely up to date information, and usually more information than what is provided to the laymen using an online service. The online services can be a good research tool, but when you start to seriously look it's going to be a much better idea to work with a professional. If you are new to the Minnesota area, working with an agent will allow you to get accurate information about neighborhoods, crime statistics, and even the quality of public schools. An agent can also get updated information for you on a weekly basis if you wish. This allows you to be alerted if a price has been reduced or a new home hits the market that meets your criteria.

For Sellers

Those selling a home will also benefit from using Minnesota MLS services. Listing your home with MLS will give you a much broader range of people looking. Since the broker lists your information in to a national database, realtors all over the country will have access to your homes listing. This means that people who are both in and out of state will be able to see the listing. The MLS listing will include specific information about your home that may be appealing to those looking. Once someone is interested in your home, they can work with a realtor who will split the commission with the broker. This means less marketing on your part. You can choose to sell it without the help of a realtor, but it's not advised. Many realtors won't look at homes that are for sale by owner for several reasons. The commission can be less for realtors working with a seller who isn't represented. This will get your listing overlooked. Realtors cannot legally refuse to show a home that isn't represented, but they won't heavily suggest or market the home for you. You will also end up paying a fee to a broker to list the information for you, so it's better to just go ahead and use a realtor. The broker may also not be motivated to push the home, meaning it could be a while before you see any interest in your home.